The pulp and paper sector, which has managed to separate its growth from CO2 emissions for decades, is taking bold steps to reduce its energy intensity in the fight against climate change. It is betting on innovative technologies that have the potential to drastically reduce its energy needs, which could reduce emissions by up to 80%. This sustainability effort is fueled by unprecedented collaboration among industry actors.
Cepi, representative of European pulp and paper manufacturers, leads a network of problem solvers and energy efficiency experts known as the Energy Efficiency Solutions Forum (EESF). Its mission is to accelerate the adoption of emissions reduction technologies and overcome regulatory challenges.
Recently, the EESF has collaborated with the heat pump industry and its EU association to pave the way towards the integration of heat pumps in European paper mills. These heat pumps have the potential to supply up to half the energy needed for heating, while reducing CO2 emissions. Additionally, a recent study revealed that by 2030, 30% of the electricity and almost 6% of the heat used on site could come from solar or wind energy sources.
However, the largest emissions reductions are expected in the short term, as manufacturers’ energy needs are reduced. Although it is yet to be determined which technology identified by the EESF will be the expected game-changer, options such as superheated steam technology and novel drying systems are being considered. Several consortia in Europe are also exploring energy efficiency solutions, which offer high performance in terms of emissions reduction. Heat, which accounts for approximately 70% of energy consumption in paper mills, is one of the key areas of focus.
One such group is the German Modellfabrik Papier, a “model factory” which will soon house researchers and academics focused on one goal: climate-neutral paper production by 2045. It is supported by 24 companies and seven research centres, as well as Cepi itself and its German counterpart DIE PAPIERINDUSTRIE. Another is the VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland Ltd, launching a mission-based research programme called Energy 1st – Fibre products forming, involving more than 40 companies. This programme will demonstrate an innovative ‘dry forming’ process in a pilot infrastructure.
Compared to other sectors, pulp and paper manufacturing makes significant annual investments to make its production processes more ecological. This comes with a certain number of near misses, so evaluating the business case for a new technology is an essential part of the process. A recent study on “deep eutectic solvents” aimed to decarbonize pulp production at source has not had the expected results. But it led to advances in the production of lignin, which could be an important source of income for the industry in the near future, as an alternative to fossil-based materials.
